The award winning author and civil rights activist was found dead at her home in Winston-Salem North Carolina this morning.

Wake Forest University, where Angelou was set to receive the “Beacon Of Life Award” this weekend, released a statement saying:

“Dr. Angelou was a national treasure whose life and teachings inspired millions around the world, including countless students, faculty, and staff at Wake Forest, where she served as Reynolds Professor of American Studies since 1982. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Angelou’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Maya Angelou became a cultural icon after the release of her book “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” in 1970. In addition to being an author, she was also an actor, a director, and a civil rights leader. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011 and recited poems at both Bill Clinton and George Bush’s inauguration.

After news of her death spread this morning, Twitter lit up with messages about the late poet.

Author: Dan Evon

Dan Evon was born, raised, and currently lives in Chicago. He is the Editor-In-Chief at Social News Daily. Over the last six years Evon has helped build several web platforms to millions of monthly readers. Dan is an expert is social media platform building and a freelance content consultant specializing in trending, evergreen and news content.